This is our section for frequently asked questions. To get directly to your question, click on the shortcuts. can view each one individually by scrolling below. Try our general tourist information area if you are unable to locate the information you require.

Note: It is strongly recommended to wear several thin layers rather than a few thick ones. Choose clothing that allows good ventilation. Synthetic materials are ideal because they dry much faster than wool. Make sure your boots are well broken in before the trek to avoid blisters and discomfort.

WHAT TO BRING ON A SAFARI

• Sleeping bag

• Flashlight and spare batteries

• Sunglasses

• Sun protection lotion

• Mosquito repellent

• Toiletry requirements and towel

• Wash kit

• Long-sleeved shirt or jumper

• Trousers

• Warm sweater

• Hat

• Binoculars

• Camera and films/memory cards

• Small daypack

What if it rains?

The main rainy season runs from mid-March to late May, with a shorter rainy period of about two weeks in November. Rain usually falls as short showers in the early morning or evening rather than all day. Game viewing is rarely affected. If you are on a camping safari, simply bring waterproof gear. All our tents are fully waterproof and can easily handle heavy downpours.

What is included and what else do I have to pay?
The price includes:

• All park entry fees, camping/hut fees and rescue fees

• Full-board accommodation

• English-speaking guides and porters

• 4×4 safari vehicle

• Unlimited game viewing within park opening hours

• All camping equipment

• AAR Emergency Rescue and Evacuation Insurance

Not included: Personal expenses such as bottled water, beer, cigarettes, soap, etc., and tipping.
We recommend budgeting 5–10% of your total tour cost as a tip for the crew if you are satisfied with their service. If you wish to visit a Maasai village and take photographs, you will need to pay a small entrance fee and negotiate directly with the locals for any photos. A stop at Olduvai Gorge also requires a modest entrance fee.

Can I bring my children on safari or trekking?

There are no age restrictions for national parks. However, children under 11 years old are not permitted to trek Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru. When choosing a safari, keep in mind that young children can get tired on long drives, so shorter itineraries focusing on parks close to each other work best. Once the animals appear, the time passes quickly and becomes exciting for both children and adults!

We are a group of 8 people. Do we get a discount?

Yes! We offer special rates for larger groups, depending on the itinerary. Please contact us for a personalised quote.I’m travelling alone and on a budget. What can you do for me?
We can easily include you in one of our existing group departures. If you are flexible with dates and itinerary, you can join other travellers who have already booked and benefit from our “last leg” discount.

What are the best times to visit the parks?

• Serengeti: October – June

• Ngorongoro: All year round

• Lake Manyara: All year round

• Tarangire: Dry season (best wildlife viewing)

• Arusha National Park: All year round

• Kilimanjaro: All year round, although the rainy season is generally not recommended due to snow and heavy rainfall.

I’m a female traveller. Any advice?

Tanzanians are friendly and outgoing, so be prepared for some attention and marriage proposals! On a serious note:

• Take the same precautions you would in any new destination.

• Avoid walking alone after dark.

• Don’t display valuables openly.

• Never leave your drink unattended.

• Dress modestly: avoid skimpy or tight clothing, especially in Muslim areas or remote villages (cover knees and shoulders).

• Be firm but polite when declining invitations.

Most importantly, don’t let fear spoil your holiday — the vast majority of visitors have a wonderful, safe time.

Suitcase or backpack?

It depends on your itinerary. A suitcase is fine for lodge safaris and flights between the mainland and Zanzibar. For camping or trekking adventures, we recommend a backpack. Please note that suitcases are not permitted on the Kilimanjaro trek.

Which route do you recommend for Kilimanjaro?

We highly recommend the Machame Route (known as the “Whisky Route”). Unlike the Marangu Route (“Coca-Cola Route”), Machame offers far more scenic variety because you ascend via Machame and descend via Mweka. Acclimatization happens naturally while walking rather than resting at huts. The route is also less steep, and most climbers reach the summit faster. We suggest a minimum 6-day trek and advise against the Arrow Glacier shortcut. If you prefer the comfort of sleeping in huts, Marangu is the only route that offers this.

How close do I get to the animals?

Our guides strictly follow park regulations and must keep a minimum distance of 25 metres from the animals. However, many animals are comfortable near the tracks, so you will often find yourself surprisingly close. We have had clients surrounded by elephants and lions — an unforgettable experience! Remember, the parks are wild areas, not zoos, so close encounters cannot be guaranteed.

How many people make it to the top of Kilimanjaro?

Our success rate is excellent: since January 2001, 85% of our clients have reached Uhuru Peak. Those who don’t make it usually turn back due to exhaustion or symptoms of altitude sickness. The best way to succeed is to walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body.

Will there be a lot of driving between the parks?

It depends on your chosen itinerary. Shorter trips that visit many parks involve more transfer time. Parks like Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Arusha are close to Arusha town (30 minutes to 2 hours). Serengeti and Ngorongoro are farther away and are best enjoyed with a minimum 4–5 day safari. We always design itineraries to maximise your time in the wilderness.

Do your vehicles have open roofs?

Yes! All our safari vehicles are specially built for game viewing. They feature pop-up roofs for excellent visibility, and on most vehicles the entire roof can be removed so you can stand up and enjoy 360° views (and catch some sun — don’t forget your sunscreen!).

Do I have to pay extra to take pictures inside the parks?

No. You may photograph and film freely inside the parks. If you want to photograph local people, you may be asked for a small payment.

Can I climb Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro independently?

Kilimanjaro cannot be climbed independently. Strict regulations require a licensed company, qualified guides, and porters. You can arrange Mount Meru on your own, but booking with us is much easier and safer. We provide all food, porters, and professional support. Even independent trekkers must be accompanied by an armed ranger and are limited to 15 kg of luggage.

We are interested in the Hadzabe bushmen in Lake Eyasi. How do we get there and what activities are offered?

You can easily add a 2-day extension to visit the Hadzabe tribe when booking a standard safari. After Lake Manyara, your guide will drive to Lake Eyasi on the way to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Activities include hunting with the bushmen, learning about their traditions, and a boat trip on the lake where you can see flamingos. You will overnight on the shores of Lake Eyasi.

Why is the trek through the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands so expensive?

The higher price is due to special camping fees and the large support team required (trained guide, armed ranger from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority, Maasai warriors, and donkeys to carry supplies). You camp at exclusive, higher-cost campsites.

Can you pick me up at the airport?

Yes. We arrange transfers from Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi International Airports. Pickup from Kilimanjaro and Nairobi is complimentary when you book a tour with us. Transfers from other airports can be arranged by private vehicle, flight, or shuttle bus.

Will you subcontract me to other companies?

No. We own our fleet of vehicles and employ our own full-time guides and cooks. We never sell our clients to other operators. Once you book with us, you have a confirmed contract and will depart on the agreed date at the agreed price.

How do I pay you?

For bookings made from abroad, we require a 25–50% deposit by bank transfer to confirm the tour. The balance can be paid upon arrival in Arusha. In Arusha you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Tanzanian Shillings), travellers’ cheques, or by Visa/Mastercard.Amendment and Cancellation Policy

• Postponement: No fees are charged unless hotels or other suppliers charge us. Hotels are generally flexible if rooms are available on the new dates.

• Cancellation: Deposits are non-refundable.